We recently ran a couple of workshops to get master’s students to rethink their CVs and encourage them to think about how to make the most of their dissertation experience. Here is a summary of our five top tips:
- Think back to why you came to LSE and assess your progress. What skills and knowledge are you developing? Is this reflected adequately in your CV? Are you looking to the MSc to develop specialist knowledge? Change career? Give yourself a competitive advantage? How can you incorporate this information in your career narrative?
- Where can you position your MSc dissertation on your CV? Under education or would another heading be more effective – eg. research experience. Sometimes sector-based headings can be the most effective way of highlighting your most relevant experience.
- Remember your MSc dissertation is a great way to build your contacts and network. This might be asking for insights/expertise about your research or reaching out to organisations that would benefit from your skills and insights and seeing how you might help them. Remember networking is about helping other people, not asking for a job.
- Work through some answers to things you’re likely to be asked, whether at interview or more informally while networking, such as: Why did you decide to study your MSc? What skills are you developing? Tell me about your dissertation.
- Map your own network and see who it’s helpful to connect with. Maintain an active presence on LinkedIn and make the most of specialist groups and LSE Alumni. Personalise your communications when connecting to maximise the chances of success.
Further support
Don’t forget LSE LIFE is offering one-to-one dissertation support to master’s students over the summer covering things like:
- how to structure and organise your dissertation
- developing your writing process
- time management
- navigating the literature review
So whether you want help with the actual process of doing the dissertation, or how it can be used to inform career decision making or the networking process, come and see one of the team at LSE Careers or LSE LIFE.
